Journal article
Municipal gravity sewers: An unrecognised source of nitrous oxide
The Science of the total environment, Vol.468-69, pp.211-218
15/01/2014
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Abstract
Highlights
Untreated wastewater from municipal sewers was surveyed for nitrous oxide (N2O).
N2O levels correlated positively with sewage flow rate and oxidised nitrogen.
Results suggest that sewer N2O production is primarily biogenic.
Contrary to international consensus, gravity sewers here are a likely source of N2O.
A presumptive N2O emission factor was developed for municipal gravity sewers.
Abstract
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a primary ozone-depleting substance and powerful greenhouse gas. N2O emissions from secondary-level wastewater treatment processes are relatively well understood as a result of intensive international research effort in recent times, yet little information exists to date on the role of sewers in wastewater management chain N2O dynamics. Here we provide the first detailed assessment of N2O levels in the untreated influent (i.e. sewer network effluent) of three large Australian metropolitan wastewater treatment plants. Contrary to current international (IPCC) guidance, results show gravity sewers to be a likely source of N2O. Results from the monitoring program revealed hydraulic flow rate as a strong driver for N2O generation in gravity sewers, with microbial processes (nitrification and possibly denitrification) implicated as the main processes responsible for its production. Results were also used to develop a presumptive emission factor for N2O in the context of municipal gravity sewers. Considering the discrepancy with current IPCC Guidelines, further work is warranted to assess the scale and dynamics of N2O production in sewers elsewhere.
Details
- Title
- Municipal gravity sewers: An unrecognised source of nitrous oxide
- Creators
- Michael D Short - University of New South WalesAlexander Daikeler - University of New South WalesGregory M Peters - University of New South WalesKirsten Mann - University of New South WalesNicholas J Ashbolt - University of New South WalesRichard M Stuetz - University of New South WalesWilliam L Peirson - University of New South Wales
- Publication Details
- The Science of the total environment, Vol.468-69, pp.211-218
- Publisher
- Elsevier
- Identifiers
- 991012978866502368
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Science and Engineering
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article